Efudex
Utilized to target actinic keratosis and intended to support the reduction of cancerous skin cell proliferation.
- Categories
- Skin Care · Oncology Support
- Active ingredient
- Fluorouracil
- Route
- Cutaneous use
- Form
- Cream
- Strengths
- 1 · 5%
You will receive a quality generic equivalent, depending on stock.
Prescription rules on Efudex vary by country.
Efudex details
- Conditions
- Actinic Keratosis · Basal Cell Carcinoma
- Alternative names
- Efudix
- Therapeutic class
- Antineoplastic agent
- Pharmacological class
- Antimetabolite
- Known off-label uses
- viral warts
- Contraindications
- hypersensitivity to fluorouracil; pregnancy
- Minor side effects
- burning; stinging; erythema; pruritus
- Moderate side effects
- erosions; ulceration; dermatitis
- Serious side effects
- severe inflammatory reaction, requires immediate medical attention
- Dosage forms
- Cream
- Administration route
- Cutaneous use
- Supply category
- Prescription only (specially controlled medicine)
- Onset Time
- 2–4 weeks
- Duration
- 3–6 weeks
- Storage instructions
- Store between 15°C and 25°C.
Precautions and warnings
avoid exposure to sunlight; wash hands thoroughly after application; do not apply to mucosal surfaces
Patient summary
utilized to target actinic keratosis and intended to support the reduction of cancerous skin cell proliferation.
Mechanism of action
Fluorouracil is an antimetabolite that inhibits thymidylate synthase, thereby interfering with DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cells, which leads to the selective destruction of actinic keratosis and neoplastic skin lesions.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Contraindicated. Breastfeeding: Not recommended due to potential systemic absorption.
What you will receive
Efudex is the originator brand name, made by Viatris. We use it here to identify the medicine only; we are not affiliated with Viatris and do not ship the original Efudex.
- You receive a generic equivalent: the same active ingredient (Fluorouracil) at the same dose, mostly recognised Indian branded generics from vetted manufacturers.
- The exact brand supplied depends on what is in stock at the dispatching warehouse.
- A regulated generic matches the original ingredient for ingredient by legal standard.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Efudex
Efudex is a well-known brand of Fluorouracil, used as a topical treatment for actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma. This medication is also available under the alternative name Efudix. It is supplied in a tube and is available in strengths of 1% and 5%.
Efudex availability in Asia
Efudex is currently registered across 14 markets, including South Korea, Japan and the UAE, with accessibility extended to Singapore, Hong Kong and Thailand. Generic Fluorouracil, much of which is produced in India, offers a more cost-effective alternative to the original brand. This availability benefits expats and those living in remote regions who need access to reliable dermatological care. As with any condition, this medication is best used under a doctor’s care.